"Our generation must ensure that America remains a beacon of liberty and the most hopeful society the world has ever known," former President George W. Bush said at the event. "We must always be proud to welcome people as fellow Americans."

"When our nation’s immigrants prosper, our country prospers," education reform director Kerri Briggs added in a blog post. "And as we continue celebrating those who are new citizens, we will also continue to work to improve opportunities for all of our children."